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NPR's Up First is the news you need to start your day. The three biggest stories of the day, with reporting and analysis from NPR News — in 10 minutes. Available weekdays at 6:30 a.m. ET, with hosts Leila Fadel, Steve Inskeep, Michel Martin and A Martinez. Also available on Saturdays at 9 a.m. ET, with Ayesha Rascoe and Scott Simon. On Sundays, hear a longer exploration behind the headlines with Ayesha Rascoe on "The Sunday Story," available by 8 a.m. ET. Subscribe and listen, then support your local NPR station at donate.npr.org.Support NPR's reporting by subscribing to Up First+ and unlock sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org/upfirst
Episodes
Mentioned books

117 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 13min
Gaza Occupation Decision, Redistricting Update, Trump Orders New Census
Israel's decision to expand military operations in Gaza raises both strategic and humanitarian concerns, spotlighting the plight of civilians. Meanwhile, a political tug-of-war over redistricting intensifies as lawmakers clash in Texas, highlighting the stakes for future elections. On another front, a controversial proposal by the former president aims to exclude undocumented individuals from the Census, igniting debates about fairness and representation. The show also briefly touches on how technology is evolving modern parenting.

163 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 13min
Fort Stewart Shooting, Tariff Deadline, Trump And Putin Meeting Prospects
A shooting at Fort Stewart leaves five soldiers injured, prompting discussions on safety and gun policies at military bases. Economic woes are underscored by new tariffs impacting fast-food sales and inflation. Meanwhile, President Trump hints at a promising meeting with Putin to address the Ukraine war, exploring the complex diplomatic landscape. The episode combines somber news with significant implications for both military safety and international relations.

63 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 13min
White House Envoy In Moscow, MAGA Split On Gaza, Redefining The Attorney General Role
Tensions rise as a White House envoy meets Putin, just ahead of a critical shutdown deadline for Russia's actions in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Trump supporters are fracturing over issues like Gaza and Epstein. The Justice Department is also launching a grand jury investigation into the Obama administration's handling of the 2016 election, revealing underlying political controversies. These developments signal potential shifts in party ideology and foreign policy approach, stirring significant debate within the Republican ranks.

94 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 13min
Gaza Pressure On Israel, Texas Redistricting, NASA Carbon Dioxide Satellites
Tensions are escalating in Gaza as Israel's government contemplates expanding military actions despite calls for a ceasefire. In Texas, a political standoff brews, with Republicans threatening to arrest Democrats over redistricting. Meanwhile, the Trump administration's plans to terminate critical NASA satellite missions for carbon monitoring raise eyebrows, given their significance for climate research and agriculture. The potential loss of these missions sparks discussions about their innovative applications in assessing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting plant growth.

80 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 13min
US Economic Outlook, Mexico Tariff Uncertainty, Gaza Hunger And Hostages
Higher import tariffs are set to roll out, but Mexico gets a reprieve, leaving businesses anxious. Meanwhile, President Trump faces pressure to free hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, where a humanitarian crisis intensifies. The economic outlook remains muddled with signs of a slowing job market and rising inflation, raising eyebrows about the administration's optimistic claims. Tensions grow as the Israeli response in Gaza faces scrutiny and public sentiment shifts regarding military actions and humanitarian needs.

40 snips
Aug 3, 2025 • 26min
Can Psychedelic Therapy Go Mainstream?
Rachel Carlson, a producer for NPR's science podcast Shortwave, delves into the fascinating world of psychedelic therapy. She shares insights on the promising potential of psychedelics for treating PTSD and depression, while navigating the complex legal landscape that hinders their prescription. The discussion highlights ketamine's unique role and the growing trend of at-home therapies, emphasizing the fine balance between hope and caution in this evolving field. Listeners will find the blend of science and personal experience truly eye-opening.

57 snips
Aug 2, 2025 • 17min
Economic Worries, Redistricting Battles, Reconsidering BMI
Will Stone, an NPR health correspondent, dives into pressing economic and health topics. He discusses disappointing job growth and how immigration and tariffs are impacting the economy. The conversation shifts to the contentious issue of redistricting, highlighting its political implications in states like Texas and California. Stone also critiques the reliability of Body Mass Index (BMI) as a health metric, advocating for alternatives like Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis to provide a more accurate assessment of health risks.

118 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 13min
Tariffs Deadline, Texas Flood Hearing, Witkoff In Israel
New tariff rates have been introduced, significantly increasing costs on Canadian imports. U.S. officials are in Gaza to oversee humanitarian efforts amidst a critical crisis. A powerful letter from over a thousand rabbis urges Israel to facilitate more aid. The podcast delves into the complex and often divided opinions on the situation in Gaza, highlighting varying perspectives within the Jewish community. The discussion offers a mix of impactful news and insightful analysis on these pressing issues.

66 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 14min
Fed Keeps Interest Rates, Texas Redistricting, US Middle East Envoy In Israel
The Federal Reserve has decided to keep interest rates steady despite pushback from various political figures. In Texas, lawmakers are proposing redistricting plans to strengthen Republican control. Meanwhile, the U.S. special envoy's visit to Israel unfolds against a backdrop of dire warnings about a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where famine is looming and casualties are rising. The discussions shed light on the interconnected nature of domestic politics and global humanitarian issues.

103 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 13min
Gaza Famine and Diplomacy, EPA Emissions Standards, GOP's Epstein Troubles
A humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Gaza, prompting the UK to consider recognizing Palestinian statehood if conditions don’t improve. Meanwhile, the EPA is reversing its stance on carbon emissions regulations, raising alarms about potential impacts on climate change. In a twist of intrigue, Ghislaine Maxwell may offer testimony to Congress about her involvement with Epstein, stirring political concerns within the GOP as they navigate this scandal. These pressing issues reveal complex intersections of geopolitics and public policy.